Panlong Yi Ethnic Town in Yanshan County, Wenshan

Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) is located in the central-southern part of Yanshan County (砚山县), within Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Dongshan Township (东山乡) of Wenshan City (文山县) to the southwest, Jiangna Town (江那镇) to the northwest, Baga Township (八嘎乡) to the southeast, and Ganhe Township (干河乡) to the northeast. The township government is situated 10 kilometers from the county seat of Yanshan (砚山县) and 25 kilometers from the Wenshan Prefectural Capital (文山州府), with a total area of approximately 237.7 square kilometers.

History and Culture

Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) derives its name from a winding river near the village that resembles a coiled dragon. In 1933 (Year 22 of the Republic of China), it belonged to the Yanshan Administrative Bureau (砚山设治局). After the establishment of Yanshan County (砚山县), it was designated as District 1, Panlong Town (盘龙镇). In 1950, it became District 4; in 1958, it was merged into Wenshan County (文山县). After the restoration of Yanshan County (砚山县) in 1961, it was designated as Panlong District (盘龙区), and officially became Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) in 1988.

Panlong Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-04Panlong Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-02

Local Customs

Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) is home to various ethnic groups including Han, Yi, Zhuang, and Miao. The Yi ethnic culture is especially rich and vibrant. The traditional Torch Festival (火把节) of the Yi people is celebrated annually on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. It is a major festival for celebrating harvests and praying for blessings.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 16.3°C. The weather is mild with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the climate is most pleasant.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Panlong Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The seat of the township government; a good place to experience local folk culture and rural life.

Laoyingshan Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Located along the Yanwen Highway (砚文公路), 6 kilometers from the township center. It is a Yi ethnic village known for its convenient transportation and fertile land.

Transportation

External Transportation

From Yanshan County (砚山县), take a passenger bus to Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡), which takes about 20 minutes. For self-driving, follow the Yanwen Highway (砚文公路) for 10 kilometers on well-maintained roads.

Internal Transportation

Within the township, travel is mainly via rural roads. Motorcycles and local vehicles are available for rent to reach different attractions.

Local Cuisine

Specialty dishes in Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) include:

  • Sanqi Banquet (三七宴): Features local medicinal herb sanqi (三七), known for its health benefits.
  • Yi-style Roast Suckling Pig (彝族烤乳猪): Crispy on the outside, tender and aromatic on the inside.

Shopping

Local specialties and handicrafts available for purchase include sanqi (三七), chili peppers, and traditional Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣).

Accommodation

Several farmhouse inns and homestays are available in Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡), offering affordable and comfortable lodging with a strong sense of local charm.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are in mountainous areas. Wear comfortable athletic shoes, use sunscreen, and take precautions against insects.
  • Be respectful of local customs, especially in villages inhabited by ethnic minorities.
  • Protect the environment by avoiding littering and preserving the natural landscape.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yanshan County (砚山县), then take public transportation or drive to Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡). Visit Panlong Village (盘龙村) to experience local customs and culture.

Day 2:
Head to Laoyingshan Village (老鹰山村) in the morning to explore Yi culture. Return to Panlong Village (盘龙村) in the afternoon for a taste of local specialties.

Day 3:
Purchase some local specialties as souvenirs, and conclude your journey with fond memories.

Panlong Yi Ethnic Township (盘龙彝族乡) is a place rich in both natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you are enjoying the scenic landscape or immersing yourself in local traditions, you will leave with a rewarding experience. We hope you have a memorable stay here.